1 in 5 people live with lung disease. Countless more are affected supporting those they're close to.

Despite this, there is no comprehensive national plan in place for lung health. It has not been considered a priority until now.

There has been no improvement in outcomes for people with lung disease for more than 10 years. While other countries have made significant progress, the UK has been left behind, and so have people with lung disease and their families.

Pictured: John, who lives with COPD, and his wife Atsue.

The Taskforce for Lung Health is a unique collaboration between experts in lung health, including patients, health care professionals and academics.

This is our call for action to decision makers to take steps now, without delay, to improve lung health in England by implementing the Taskforce’s recommendations. We want to create a society where everyone can thrive with healthy lungs and have a better chance to live well and work when lung disease is diagnosed.

For the first time ever, respiratory, along with cardiovascular disease, is an official priority in NHS England’s long-term plan.

This recognition is long overdue, and extremely welcome. NHS England is planning to focus on areas including preventing lung disease, early and accurate diagnosis and pulmonary rehabilitation. But there is clearly lots more to do beyond these specific areas.